Scott Derrickson Shares Labyrinth Sequel Progress: A Bittersweet Update

In delightful news for devoted fans of Labyrinth, director Scott Derrickson’s envisioned sequel is indeed in the works. However, the uncertainty looms large as to when and if this project will come to fruition. During a recent interview with ComicBook.com, while promoting V/H/S/85, Derrickson shared his enthusiasm for returning to the enchanting world of Labyrinth, though the project’s current status remains elusive.

Labyrinth, Jim Henson’s iconic masterpiece, continues to capture hearts even 35 years after its initial release. Visualizing the creative direction Derrickson might take is a tantalizing prospect, given his exceptional work on Doctor Strange. The potential for something extraordinary within the labyrinthine world is high, considering Derrickson’s imaginative prowess.

In the conversation with ComicBook.com’s Chris Killian, Derrickson admitted, “I don’t know what’s happening with that.” The script didn’t align entirely with the studio’s vision, posing a challenge for moving the project forward. The ambitious nature of the film, demanding a significant budget due to its imaginative and surreal essence, complicates the commercial viability. Striking a balance between maintaining the essence of the original while ensuring mass appeal is a daunting task.

Reflecting on the project’s unique complexity, Derrickson shared his pride in the work accomplished so far, despite the challenges. He emphasized, “I was very proud of the work that we did on it. And it’s a hard, hard project to turn into something commercially viable, because it’s so imaginative and surreal that there’s no way that it can be done cheaply.”

Acknowledging the unavoidable absence of original director Jim Henson and star David Bowie, Derrickson emphasized that plans for the sequel had considered this significant loss. He tactfully refrained from divulging details, respecting the ongoing development and the potential for the sequel to honor the essence of the original while forging a new path.

With the sequel still in development, Derrickson refrained from unveiling too much, leaving fans eagerly awaiting more information. As he put it, “Because the project is still in development, I probably shouldn’t say.” The prospect of an intriguing plot, perhaps involving the iconic Goblin King, is something fans can eagerly anticipate, hoping that this enchanting journey into the labyrinth will eventually come to life on the big screen.